39216, Jackson, Mississippi Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 39216, Jackson, Mississippi is 93 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.03 percent of the residents in 39216 has some form of health insurance. 37.93 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.04 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 39216 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 745 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 79 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39216. An estimate of 44 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 870 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 10,241 health care providers accessible to residents in 39216, Jackson, Mississippi.

## Lung Cancer Score: Jackson, MS (ZIP Code 39216)

This analysis evaluates the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 39216, focusing on primary care availability and related resources in Jackson, Mississippi. The assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice specializations, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, ultimately providing a "Lung Cancer Score" reflecting the accessibility and quality of care.

The foundation of effective lung cancer management rests upon strong primary care. Early detection through screening, prompt referrals to specialists, and ongoing patient management are all critical. In 39216, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) significantly impacts the ability to achieve these goals. Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio reveals the potential strain on the existing healthcare infrastructure. A higher ratio, meaning more patients per PCP, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnosis. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility and potentially improved patient outcomes. Specific data on the exact physician-to-patient ratio within 39216 requires detailed local data, but this is a crucial metric in understanding the overall health of the system.

The presence of specialized pulmonologists and oncologists within or easily accessible to the 39216 area is another critical factor. Lung cancer treatment is complex, often involving a multidisciplinary approach. Access to specialists who are experienced in diagnosing and treating lung cancer, including surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists, is paramount. The proximity of these specialists, their affiliations with hospitals, and their availability for consultations are key indicators of the quality of care. The presence of dedicated lung cancer screening programs, ideally adhering to the latest guidelines from organizations like the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), further enhances the chances of early detection and improved survival rates.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly for patients who may have mobility issues or live in areas with limited access to specialists. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, monitor patients remotely, and provide education through telehealth platforms can improve patient convenience and access to care. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering options for virtual follow-up appointments, medication management, and even support group meetings, are likely to score higher in our assessment. The availability of remote monitoring devices, which allow physicians to track vital signs and symptoms, can also contribute to a more proactive approach to patient care.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but crucial component of lung cancer care. A diagnosis of lung cancer can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, who specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients, is essential. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care plans, offering access to counseling, support groups, and other resources, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. The integration of these services can significantly improve the patient's quality of life and their ability to cope with the physical and emotional challenges of the disease.

To pinpoint standout practices within the 39216 area, we would consider several factors. These include the physicians' board certifications, years of experience, patient satisfaction scores, and the availability of advanced treatment options, such as targeted therapies and immunotherapies. Practices that participate in clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge research and treatments, would also be highly regarded. Furthermore, the practice's commitment to patient education, providing clear and concise information about the disease, treatment options, and potential side effects, is a crucial element of a quality practice. The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate seamless communication between providers and improve care coordination is another positive indicator.

The "Lung Cancer Score" would be a composite measure, reflecting the weighted average of these factors. The physician-to-patient ratio would be a significant component, as would the availability of specialists and the adoption of telemedicine. Mental health resources and the presence of standout practices would also contribute to the overall score. The higher the score, the better the access to and quality of lung cancer care within the 39216 area.

This analysis provides a general framework for evaluating lung cancer care in the specified ZIP code. A truly comprehensive assessment would require detailed data on physician availability, specialist access, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. This data would be used to provide a quantifiable score.

For more detailed mapping of healthcare resources in the Jackson area, including physician locations, practice specializations, and hospital affiliations, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps.